Abu Dhabi: The Abu Dhabi City Municipality, in a proactive initiative to ensure all stakeholders are updated and in sync with the latest building codes and practices, conducted a comprehensive workshop for engineering consultancy offices. This session, held at the Building Permits Department, served to disseminate vital updates on building mechanisms, procedures, regulations, and systems pertinent to construction and building modifications within the city.
One of the focal points of the workshop was the introduction of the Emirates Environmental Excellence Model (EEEM). This model is designed to elevate environmental performance across various sectors, ensuring alignment with international sustainability standards. The EEEM encourages innovative research and development and is seen as a significant step towards consolidating Abu Dhabi’s status as a leader in environmental stewardship.
Sheikh Hamdan Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the Ruler’s Representative in Al Dhafra Region and Chairman of the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD), highlighted the critical role of the Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Environmental Award in this context. “This award underpins our long-standing commitment to sustainability and environmental protection, a legacy initiated by the late Sheikh Zayed. It is a platform that not only recognizes but also inspires sustainable practices across the UAE,” he stated.
The workshop covered a variety of topics, including new regulations for tent constructions, updates to housing requirements in specific residential communities, and an overview of the latest laws affecting construction and building additions. The Building Permits Department emphasised the importance of compliance with the stipulated conditions to prevent any legal or structural issues during the building process.
The workshop provided a platform for attendees to engage directly with municipality officials, offering feedback and suggestions on how to enhance the building permit process and improve overall service delivery.
Dr. Shaikha Salem Al Dhaheri, Secretary-General of EAD, elaborated on the role of the award in fostering sustainability-driven innovation. “By integrating innovative assessment mechanisms and setting new benchmarks for environmental excellence, we aim to tackle complex environmental challenges effectively,” she explained.
The session concluded with an interactive Q&A segment, allowing consultancy offices to clarify any uncertainties and align their operations with the latest regulatory frameworks. The municipality reassured all participants of its ongoing support and commitment to facilitating a smooth, efficient, and transparent building permits process.
Key regulations discussed
• Stringent requirements for tent constructions ensuring safety and compliance with aesthetic norms of the community.
• Updates to Al Falah Residential Community housing expansions, aimed at accommodating homeowner requests while preserving the area’s infrastructure and aesthetic value.
• Introduction of the Emirates Environmental Excellence Model to guide future construction and renovations towards sustainability.
